star anise
• noun
A pungent, licorice-flavored spice derived from the star-shaped seed pods of an evergreen tree native to southwestern China and northeast Vietnam, widely used in Asian cuisine and five-spice powder.
"The traditional recipe for Vietnamese pho broth requires toasted star anise, cinnamon, and cloves to achieve its complex flavor."
The small evergreen tree (Illicium verum) of the Schisandraceae family that produces aromatic, star-shaped seed pods.
"Farmers in southern China cultivate star anise for both its culinary value and its application in traditional medicine."
Word Nuance & Usage
Often confused with common anise; although botanically unrelated, both plants share a similar licorice-like flavor profile due to the organic compound anethole.
• Nearby Words
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.